Update:

Kyle Chandler has landed the role, and wasn’t even on the wheel.

The upcoming MAX / DC show “Lanterns” promises to bring a new dimension to the Green Lantern universe by focusing on two Green Lanterns in a procedural crime drama set on Earth. One of the most crucial aspects of the show is the casting of Hal Jordan, a character who is not only a fearless test pilot but also a complex hero struggling with his responsibilities as a Green Lantern. The casting of Hal Jordan is a pivotal factor in the show’s success, and several actors could bring something unique to the role. Here, we explore 12 actors who could play Hal Jordan and why each would be a fantastic choice.

12. Clive Owen

Clive Owen’s rugged charm and commanding presence make him a strong contender for Hal Jordan. Owen’s roles in films like “Children of Men” and “Sin City” not only demonstrate his ability to portray challenging and morally complex characters, but also his exceptional acting skills. His experience in action and thriller genres would lend itself well to the procedural crime drama elements of “Lanterns.” At the same time, his ability to convey a stoic determination could add depth to Hal Jordan’s character, making him both relatable and formidable.

11. Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke’s thoughtful, reflective acting style could bring a more cerebral approach to Hal Jordan. Known for his roles in films like “Training Day” and “Before Sunrise,” Hawke excels in playing characters with a deep sense of purpose and inner conflict. His experience portraying flawed but determined individuals would allow him to explore the complexities of Hal Jordan, particularly his journey from a fearless pilot to a hero burdened by the responsibilities of wielding the power ring.

10. James Franco

James Franco brings a unique blend of charisma, intensity, and unpredictability to his roles, qualities that could translate well into a character like Hal Jordan. Franco’s experience portraying characters with charm and edginess, such as in “127 Hours” and “The Disaster Artist,” would bring a new dimension to Hal Jordan. His ability to shift between drama and comedy could give Hal a layered personality, balancing his duty as a Green Lantern with his more carefree nature.

9. Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal’s range as an actor makes him a versatile choice for Hal Jordan. His performances in films like “Nightcrawler” and “Southpaw” show his ability to delve deep into his characters’ psyches, bringing out their inner turmoil and conflicts. Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of Mysterio in “Spider-Man: Far From Home” showcased his ability to play a character with layers and moral ambiguity, which could be leveraged to explore Hal Jordan’s complex nature as a hero who struggles with the weight of his responsibilities.

8. Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg’s tough-guy persona and physical presence could make him an ideal candidate for Hal Jordan. Known for his roles in action-packed films like The Departed and Transformers, Wahlberg has a knack for playing characters who are both brash and relatable. His experience portraying flawed yet determined characters would resonate well with Hal Jordan’s personality as a test pilot turned intergalactic peacekeeper. Wahlberg’s ability to deliver gritty performances would bring a grounded, no-nonsense approach to the role.

7. Matt Damon

Matt Damon, a seasoned actor, is known for his ability to play both action heroes and dramatic roles. His portrayal of Jason Bourne in the ‘Bourne’ series, in particular, showcases his adeptness in handling intense action sequences. Damon’s experience in roles that require a balance of physicality and introspection positions him as a strong candidate for Hal Jordan. His ability to convey determination and resilience, as seen in his action roles, could bring a compelling depth to Hal’s journey as a Green Lantern.

6. Rob Lowe

Rob Lowe brings a sophisticated charm and humor that could lighten Hal Jordan’s character, making him more relatable and entertaining. With his extensive television experience in shows like “Parks and Recreation” and “The West Wing,” Lowe knows how to command the screen and deliver memorable performances. His ability to balance drama with lightheartedness would allow him to bring a multi-faceted version of Hal Jordan to the small screen, making the character appealing and complex.

5. Viggo Mortensen

While Viggo Mortensen might be an unconventional choice for Hal Jordan, his track record of playing intense, committed characters could bring a unique gravitas to the role. Known for his portrayal of Aragorn in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, Mortensen has demonstrated a capability to embody roles that require a strong sense of leadership and inner strength. His experience playing characters who are reluctant heroes could offer a fresh perspective on Hal Jordan, focusing on his internal struggles and sense of duty. Mortensen’s potential portrayal of Hal Jordan could bring a sense of hope to the character’s journey.

4. Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper, who has already proven his mettle in the superhero genre as the voice of Rocket Raccoon in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, has the range and charisma to take on Hal Jordan. His role in “American Sniper” showcased his ability to play a complex military character with layers of emotional struggle, a trait that would be crucial for Hal Jordan. Cooper’s mix of rugged handsomeness and his ability to convey both cockiness and vulnerability would make him a compelling choice for the role.

3. Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling’s versatility as an actor is well-documented, from intense dramas like “Drive” to romantic comedies like “Crazy, Stupid, Love.” His ability to portray a brooding, introspective character would add a new dimension to Hal Jordan. Gosling has a knack for bringing subtlety and depth to his roles, which could explore Hal’s inner conflicts and the burden of being a Green Lantern. Additionally, Gosling’s physicality and experience in action sequences would ensure he could handle the demands of a superhero role.

2. Chris Pratt

Chris Pratt, with his extensive experience in both comedy and action, could bring a lighter, more humorous touch to Hal Jordan. His roles in “Guardians of the Galaxy” as Star-Lord and “Jurassic World” as Owen Grady, demonstrate his ability to handle both genres with finesse. His portrayal of a lovable rogue with a heart of gold would make him a unique choice for Hal Jordan. His experience as a space-faring hero who often finds himself in over his head would reassure fans of his suitability for this role.

1. Chris Pine

Chris Pine is no stranger to playing heroic characters with a strong sense of duty and charisma, as demonstrated by his role as Captain James T. Kirk in the “Star Trek” reboot series. His portrayal of a young, brash leader who grows into his responsibilities mirrors Hal Jordan’s journey from a cocky test pilot to a seasoned Green Lantern. Pine’s charm and ability to convey emotional depth make him an ideal candidate to bring Hal Jordan to life. His experience with action and science fiction and his proven chemistry with dynamic roles would translate well into the world of “Lanterns.”

Each of these actors brings something unique to the table, offering different shades to the character of Hal Jordan. Whether it’s Chris Pine’s natural charisma, Viggo Mortensen’s intensity, or Jake Gyllenhaal’s emotional depth, the choice of actor will significantly shape the portrayal of Hal Jordan in “Lanterns.” With a rich array of talents to choose from, the casting of Hal Jordan could be a defining factor in the show’s success, capturing the complexity of a character who is as much a hero on Earth as he is in the cosmos.

Tune in Sunday as our panel will discuss the possibilities of some of these actors.